WEST BRANCH STANDS TALL IN RIVALRY GAME

SALEM OH- West Branch delivered an emphatic performance as they triumphed over their arch-rival Salem in a decisive three-set victory, with set scores of 25-11, 25-15, and 25-19. This impressive win not only secured bragging rights but also bolstered the team’s overall record to 8-4, with an impressive 4-1 standing in the EBC.

Key players from West Branch showcased their talents on the court, contributing significantly to the team’s success. Addison Craven led the charge with a stellar performance, accumulating 12 points and delivering six aces, making her presence felt during crucial moments of the match.

Isabel Martig was another standout player, adding 11 points and three aces, showing her proficiency in serving and contributing to West Branch’s momentum. Both Kendelle Hoopes and Martig played pivotal roles in setting up plays, with each recording 10 assists.

Mikalyn Fitts proved to be a force at the net, tallying nine kills, while Kendyll Kaley added eight kills, showcasing their offensive prowess. Ragan Greeneisen emerged as the defensive leader for the Warriors, playing a crucial role in maintaining their dominance throughout the match.

The victory not only solidified West Branch’s position as a formidable force but also provided a satisfying win against their rival Salem. With this impressive performance, West Branch continues to build on their successful season, poised for further accomplishments in the competitive EBC.

REBELS BUST THROUGH ANOTHER MVAC FOE

GARRETTSVILLE OH- Crestview continued their impressive undefeated streak with a commanding sweep of Garfield on Tuesday night, securing victory with set scores of 25-11, 25-14, and 25-10. The Rebels showcased their dominance in the match, leaving little room for their opponents to mount a comeback.

Key players for Crestview made significant contributions to their team’s success. Grace Auer stood out with an impressive double-double, tallying 15 kills and 14 assists. Her versatility on the court played a pivotal role in Crestview’s offensive strategy. Auer also added 8 digs to her stellar performance.

Abbey Emch added to Crestview’s firepower with 13 kills, 8 digs, and 2 blocks. Her consistency at the net and strong defensive play made her a valuable asset to the team.

Lainy Auer, another crucial contributor, recorded 7 kills, 14 assists, and 2 blocks, showcasing her skills on both ends of the court. Her ability to set up plays and contribute defensively made her an essential part of Crestview’s game plan.

Natalie Blakeman added 5 digs and 2 aces, while Julia Blasko contributed with 4 aces, bolstering Crestview’s serving and defensive efforts.

With this impressive victory, Crestview maintains their undefeated status and now sets their sights on a highly anticipated matchup against undefeated LaBrae, promising an exciting clash between two powerhouse teams in their upcoming home game on Thursday.

RESERVE JUST KEEPS WINNING

BERLIN CENTER OH- Western Reserve showcased their dominance on the volleyball court with a convincing 3-0 victory over Sebring, with set scores of 25-17, 25-13, and an impressive 25-4 in the final set. Alyvia Hughes, the standout player of the match, achieved a remarkable milestone as she recorded her 1000th career kill during this outstanding performance.

Alyvia Hughes was a force to be reckoned with, contributing significantly to her team’s success. She achieved a double-double with an astonishing 15 kills and 10 digs, showcasing her prowess at both the net and in the back row. Her versatility and skill were undeniable, making her a vital asset to the Western Reserve team.

Assisting Hughes in her impressive performance were Haylee Fellows with 20 assists and Quincy Miller with 10 assists. Their precise sets allowed Hughes and her teammates to execute their plays effectively and score critical points throughout the match.

Defensively, Ally Jones stood out with 14 digs, ensuring that the Western Reserve team maintained control over the match. The final set’s score of 25-4 was a testament to the team’s dominance on the night.

Alyvia Hughes’s achievement of 1000 career kills, combined with her 1000 career digs, is a remarkable feat that underscores her impact on the game. Western Reserve’s victory and Hughes’s milestone together create a memorable moment in their season, and their strong performance leaves a lasting impression in the world of high school volleyball.

 

KNIGHTS DOMINATE BATTLE OF AKRON

By Ty Bartell

AKRON OH- Rivalries. They are what brings all the natural drama into the world of sports, the very
thing that peaks our interests and keeps us wanting more. Seen in both professional and collegiate athletics, high schools are no stranger to rivalries, with every school having that one adversary that raises the tension of the matchup immensely! Certain high school contests carry different weight and bring a ton of attention to them, the battle between Akron St. Vincent & St. Mary and Akron Archbishop Hoban is one of those rivalries.

On Tuesday night, inside of Barry Gym at The Castle of Archbishop Hoban High School, The Fighting Irish and The Knights battled once again. This time, they took it to the volleyball court for their one and only matchup of the year in front of a packed house with student sections that were loud and proud! Feeding off the energy of the crowd, both teams exchanged in some back-and-forth scoring, testing the waters on one another. The Knights used a big run in the middle of the set to create all the separation they would need. Sprinting to the finish, Hoban would claim the convincing 25-10 opening set win.

Feeling the groove and staying in rhythm, The Knights carried their string of dominating runs into the next set. Getting both a 6 and 11 point run in the set, Hoban would propel themselves to a 2-0 set lead with a 25-7 set two victory. Getting better as the night went on, it proved to be all Archbishop Hoban on Tuesday evening, with The Knights conquering the third set (25-5) and the match 3-0.

Another straight set win has Hoban at a perfect 9-0 to start the year! Big performers for The Knights included the always amazing Amber Watson who led the way in kills again with 14. The Cool Mintz made an impact on both sides of the ball as Macie Mintz notched 11 digs and Madison Mintz recorded 17 service points. Kalie Watson was The Ace Queen of the evening with 4 aces, while Bailey Prince fortified the net with 3 blocks to lead The Knights. The lone senior Sophia Day led the way setting up the offense to the tune of 16 assists on the night.

Hoban (9-0) will now turn their attention to the road where they will meet The Lake Blue Streaks (3-4) on Thursday, September 14th.

RAIDERS RIDE THE WAVES

In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the South Range Raiders emerged victorious against the Struthers Wildcats in a three-set sweep, winning with a dominant scoreline of 3-0. The Raiders showcased their prowess on the volleyball court, leaving their opponents struggling to keep up.

The Raiders set the tone for the match with a convincing victory in the first set, winning 25-18. Maddie Mook, a standout performer of the night, displayed her all-around abilities, contributing 7 kills and 4 aces.

 

South Range continued to assert their dominance in the second set, winning 25-19. Maddie Mook’s serves and kills continued to trouble the Wildcats, making her a pivotal player for the Raiders.

The Raiders sealed the match with another strong performance in the third set, winning comfortably with a score of 25-17. Olivia Meli’s impressive 9 kills and 3 blocks demonstrated her prowess at the net.

Maddie Mook was the standout athlete of the night, not only contributing offensively with 7 kills but also making her presence felt with 4 aces, showcasing her all-around skills.

Sarah Kuhns orchestrated the Raiders’ offense with precision, delivering 13 assists. Her 5 digs added to her invaluable contributions on both ends of the court.

Olivia Meli’s prowess at the net was evident with her 9 kills and 3 blocks, making her a key player in the Raiders’ victory.

Maddie Mook’s outstanding performance earned her the title of Athlete of the Game. Her contributions in multiple facets of the game played a pivotal role in the Raiders’ resounding victory.

The South Range Raiders’ emphatic 3-0 win over the Struthers Wildcats showcased their dominance on the volleyball court. With a well-rounded team effort and standout performances from players like Maddie Mook, they left no doubt about their superiority in this match.

LAKEVIEW SWEEPS THEIR WAY TO FIRST PLACE

GIRARD OH- Lakeview (9-1) asserted their dominance on the volleyball court by securing a convincing victory over Girard in three sets, further solidifying their position atop the NE8 standings.

In the first set, Lakeview displayed their prowess with a 25-21 win, setting the tone for the match. They followed it up with back-to-back 25-18 victories in the subsequent sets, demonstrating their control over the game.

Lakeview’s individual performances were key to their success, with Hallie Capan leading the charge in service points with an impressive 19. Mara Schmader added to the team’s success with 3 aces. The offensive firepower was provided by Reagan Price with 17 kills and Molly Stuart with 15, ensuring Lakeview’s dominance at the net. Reagan Price also contributed defensively with 2 blocks, while Addy Allen and Hallie Capan showcased their prowess in digs with 14 and 13, respectively.

Girard put up a strong effort, with Bree Latell and Nico Cochran leading the offensive charge with 16 and 14 kills, respectively. Bailey Walters facilitated their offense with 30 assists. While Girard displayed their competitive spirit, Lakeview’s well-rounded play ultimately secured their position at the top of the NE8 standings.

BADGER KEEPS ROLLING ON THE COURT

KINSMAN, OH- In a thrilling varsity volleyball match, the Badger Lady Braves faced off against Chalker, and it was a match to remember. The Badger Lady Braves emerged victorious in a convincing three-set sweep, with scores of 25-18, 25-22, and 25-16.

The key to Badger’s success in this matchup was their impressive serving. Brianna Lendak led the way with a remarkable 9 serves that kept Chalker on the defensive throughout the game. Both Brianna Lendak and Gabriella Miller contributed 6 aces each, making it extremely challenging for Chalker to counter their serves.

Brianna Huscroft showcased her skills as the team’s primary setter, racking up 8 assists to help set up her teammates for successful attacks. Hannah Betts and Gabriella Miller were the offensive powerhouses for the Badger Lady Braves, each recording 7 kills. Their well-placed shots and strong attacks put constant pressure on the Chalker defense.

Hannah Betts also stood out defensively with 3 blocks, disrupting Chalker’s attempts to score and further cementing her team’s control of the match. Additionally, Ava Harnett played a crucial role in the backline with 9 digs, ensuring that Badger was able to dig out Chalker’s attacks and transition to offense smoothly.

The Badger Lady Braves’ all-around performance, from serving and setting to attacking and defending, proved too much for Chalker to handle. With this impressive victory, the Badger Lady Braves improved to 7-1 on the season, and 6-0 in the NAC.

CAMPBELL PUTS THE BULLDOGS ON A LEASH

CAMPBELL OH- In a highly competitive non-conference matchup, Campbell emerged victorious over Poland in four sets, with scores of 22-25, 25-16, 25-17, and 25-14. The match showcased a strong and balanced effort from Campbell’s squad, with several players making significant contributions to the team’s success.

MiLeena Williams led the way in the service department with 3 aces, adding to her overall impact on the game. The offensive prowess was on full display, with Kendall Brunn recording an impressive 17 kills, while the freshman standout Elysia Rudolphi contributed 12 kills of her own. MiLeena Williams and Cyra Cross also played a crucial role in the offensive attack, each recording 10 kills. On the defensive front, Carla Ramirez Ortiz tallied 3 blocks, and MiLeena Williams added 2 blocks to her impressive stat line.

Carla Ramirez Ortiz’s precise setting was a key factor, as she recorded an impressive 47 assists, facilitating the team’s offense effectively. In the back row, a collective effort on the defensive end was led by Gabriela Villanueva Santos and Cyra Cross, each recording 18 digs. Angeliz Diaz and Jayda Coriano added 15 digs apiece, while MiLeena Williams contributed 10 more. Campbell’s well-rounded performance, both offensively and defensively, secured their victory in a hard-fought battle against Poland.

RAMS GRAB BIG UPSET OVER FITCH

MINERAL RIDGE OH- In a standout performance, Mineral Ridge continued to impress, improving to 7-3 overall and maintaining their strong 5-1 conference record with a notable non-conference victory over Austintown Fitch. The Rams displayed their depth and skill throughout the match, with several key players making significant contributions.

Faith Schneider was undoubtedly a driving force, showcasing her prowess with an exceptional 32 digs and an impressive 23 kills, achieving a well-deserved double-double. Sammie Aulet orchestrated the team’s offense with precision, tallying 41 assists and adding 3 aces to her impressive stat line. Ava Hulett proved to be a versatile asset with 24 digs and 20 kills, further solidifying the team’s offensive firepower. Anastasia Busse showcased her blocking abilities with 3 blocks, adding a defensive edge to the Rams’ performance.

Mineral Ridge’s well-rounded play and standout individual performances were the key to their victory, underscoring their position as a force to be reckoned with in the world of high school volleyball.

LIBERTY KNOCKS OFF THE COWBOYS

YOUNGSTOWN OH- Liberty showcased their dominance on the volleyball court with a convincing victory over Chaney, sealing the match with scores of 25-11, 25-15, and 25-12. The standout performance of the day came from Lexi Muck, who led her team’s offensive charge with an impressive 19 kills. Muck’s contributions didn’t stop there; she also recorded 2 blocks and served up an ace, highlighting her all-around abilities.

Mia Parker took charge of the playmaking duties, notching 2 kills, 17 assists, and an impressive 5 aces, making her a pivotal player in the team’s success. Chloe Fleps played a crucial role with 6 assists, facilitating the team’s offensive coordination. Amira Smith added to the team’s offensive firepower with 3 kills and contributed defensively with 1 block. Liberty’s well-rounded performance and standout individual efforts resulted in a commanding victory, underscoring their prowess on the volleyball court.